Apparently, I Need a Prosthetic to Wash Apples…

Here’s the actual quote from a company called the LN4 Hand Project:

“A prosthetic hand is an invaluable asset to an individual without an upper limb.

An upper limb prosthesis can determine whether or not an individual is able to be employed, contribute to household duties, or provide an increased sense of independence.”

As a successful one-handed person—a podcaster, speaker, nonprofit founder, and former pro bowler—I have to say, that sentence overlooks the truth: people with limb differences are capable with or without a device.

And it’s not just the language. Companies like Taska Prosthetics create videos that show one-handed people doing things like washing apples, as if that’s the pinnacle of independence.

While I love and appreciate prosthetics, we can do better. In this podcast, I break down the problem with this kind of messaging, share my lived experience, and challenge the assumption that a prosthesis defines your ability to succeed.

👉 Let’s flip the script—from limitation to liberation.

🔗 Learn more about my story: https://mikebolland.com

🎙 Host of We’re Not Stumped

📣 Drop a comment if you’re living proof that one hand is more than enough.

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  • Scott Martin Play From The Heart

December 30th, 2025|

In this deeply moving episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland welcomes Scott Martin, a bilateral hand amputee, soccer coach, and author of the upcoming memoir Play From Your Heart. Scott opens up about the life-altering infection in 1993 that led to the loss of both hands and parts of his feet, and the emotional aftermath that followed. He speaks honestly about denial, detachment, and the five-year struggle with depression that tested his identity, confidence, and purpose.

  • A Christmas Reflection on Resilience, Community, and Gratitude

December 25th, 2025|

This special Christmas episode of We’re Not Stumped is a heartfelt reflection from host Mike Bolland on resilience, community, and gratitude during the holiday season. Instead of an interview, Mike takes a few minutes to acknowledge the realities many people in the limb loss and disability community face during the holidays — from accessibility challenges and family dynamics to grief, growth, and adapting to change — all with warmth and a touch of humor. Mike also shares what this podcast has taught him over the past year and gives a heartfelt shout-out to some incredible guests who trusted him with their stories.

  • Positive Pieces LLC

December 23rd, 2025|

In this inspiring episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Jason A. Jones—motivational speaker, author, and founder of Positive Pieces—for a powerful conversation about resilience, mindset, and growing up with a congenital hand difference. Mike and Jason share a unique connection: both were born with a difference in their right hand. Together, they explore the realities of childhood, school, friendships, sports, and the challenges of first impressions when living with a visible disability. Jason reflects on the role his parents played in building confidence and accountability, encouraging him to adapt without excuses and believe in his own abilities. Jason also discusses his motivational memoir, 3 the Hard Way, which chronicles his journey from adolescence through college—including major setbacks like a serious car accident, job loss, and navigating employment with a disability. The conversation dives into the importance of mindset, and how resilience is built through lived experience.

By |July 31st, 2025|Congenital Amputee Stories, General Disability Related Resources and News, Upper Limb Amputees|Comments Off on Apparently, I Need a Prosthetic to Wash Apples…

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